Explained: How The Second Phase Of Redevelopment Will Revamp Delhi's Chandni Chowk

The Delhi government will soon embark on the second phase of the redevelopment of the infamous Chandni Chowk. Initially, the restoration was destined to start in the month of March this year. However, officials informed that the process was delayed due to a countable number of reasons. 

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Recently, Delhi's Deputy Chief Minister conducted a meeting with the concerned officials to finalize the plan. He mentioned that the project would be soon kicked off, and officials in the region would ensure that the local shop owners and the historical sites aren't caused any inconvenience.

In this phase, the focus will be primarily on refurbishing the buildings by achieving an equilibrium between modern architecture and the historical value of the place. The heritage structures would be restored using original material and construction techniques that range from structural retrofitting to restoration and unification of the facade of the structures. Besides, the shops and buildings of the region would be revived and beautified by giving some color and signage schemes, along with lighting and facade illumination.

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As part of attracting and engaging the visitors at the historic location of Chandni Chowk, at least two changes shall take place. First, the roads of the Shahjahanabad area would be developed for an enhanced shopping experience. Second, for the purpose of enriching the knowledge of local visitors and international tourists about the architectural sites, the storylines of the heritage sites would be preserved in various spots with the use of QR codes and plaques. 

The Public Works Department (PWD) is the agency that is in charge of executing the project. As per officials, the authority had already appointed consultants to undertake the process in this phase. 

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The first phase of redevelopment of the historic site was completed in 2021. During this phase, the entire 1400 meters stretch - from Red Fort to Fatehpuri Mosque - was redeveloped with granite stones and red sandstone. In addition, the pavement of the area was made pedestrian-friendly with a no-traffic zone for motor vehicles from 9 am to 9 pm.  

Here, the authorities focused on the decongestion of the area and further landscaping - such as the installation of CCTV cameras to ensure the safety of people - to improvise the shopping experience for visitors. 

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Earlier, the traders who work at and around the now redeveloped Chandni Chowk stretch from Red Fort to Fatehpuri Mosque had filed a petition regarding the lack of maintenance in the area. In response, the Delhi High court, while hearing, directed the Chief Secretary to constitute a committee and appoint a Chief Nodal Officer of the area to rectify all identified problems by October end. 

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Later, the court order issued on August 23 said, "The inspection note reflects that there are no boom barriers installed at street junctions, CCTV cameras are yet to be set up, and a large number of deficiencies have been pointed out by the chief nodal officer himself."